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FCC's Pai supports repeal of NFL TV blackout rules

John Wawrow, Associated Press
2:06 p.m. CDT August 12, 2014

New Orleans Saints tight end Josh Hill (89) plays against the St. Louis Rams in last week's preseason game in St. Louis. A FCC commissioner said Tuesday that he supports repealing the NFL's TV blackout rules.(Photo: Scott Kane AP)

Ajit Pai says the FCC needs to "be on the side of sports fans" regarding league rules that prevent games that are not sold out from being broadcast in the home team's market.

Pai is one of five FCC commissioners, and was in Buffalo on Tuesday to make the announcement alongside congressman Brian Higgins, who has urged the FCC to change the rules. The FCC has spent the past year seeking public input regarding blackout regulations.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has said there is no reason to change the blackout policy put in place in 1975. Goodell says repeal could affect future TV contracts and lead to fewer games broadcast for free.

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